New Southern Ute Indian Montessori Academy Principal, Shawna Steffler holds Myles Morishige’s hand as the beginning of the school year kicks off on Monday, August 27.

Keyon Alston shakes hands with Southern Ute Councilman Melvin Baker. Tribal Council members surprised SUIMA students and staff Monday, August 27, on the first day of school.

Lane Frost and classmate, Clementine Carillo welcome the start of a new school year, Monday, August 27.

Photo Credit: McKayla Lee | The Southern Ute Drum